NASA

Operates the United States civilian space program, encompassing human spaceflight, robotic exploration, Earth science, aeronautics research, and space technology development. The agency manages the International Space Station in partnership with international space agencies and is executing the Artemis program to return astronauts to the lunar surface. NASA operates a fleet of robotic spacecraft across the solar system, including the Mars Perseverance rover, the James Webb Space Telescope, and numerous Earth-observing satellites monitoring climate, weather, and natural hazards. The agency conducts aeronautics research through programs in supersonic flight, air traffic management, and green aviation technology. Across 10 major centers and facilities nationwide, NASA funds and oversees development of launch vehicles, spacecraft, and scientific instruments while managing deep-space communications networks and ground infrastructure. The agency operates on an annual congressional appropriation of approximately $24.4 billion and serves as the primary customer for the U.S. commercial space industry.